Tehran: A big ceremony has been held in Tehran to commemorate the fortieth day since the passing of those killed during recent foreign-backed riots. Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref was among the first senior officials to attend the event, held at Tehran's Grand Mossalla on Tuesday.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the cabinet of President Masoud Pezeshkian had earlier called on the Iranian people to participate in the gathering, which marks the fortieth day since the passing of the martyrs and victims of the recent unrest. The cabinet emphasized that the bereaved families are free to hold their own gatherings and ceremonies according to their will and traditions.

The peaceful protests escalated into violent unrest on January 8 and 9 with the involvement of Mossad and US-backed elements, resulting in the death of 3,117 Iranian citizens.